Abstract: A method and apparatus for opening a communications port for communication over a wireless communication network. Specifically, one embodiment of the present invention discloses a method for opening a virtual communications (VCOM) port that is configured with a particular profile over a Bluetooth network. After an attempt to open the VCOM port is received from a first application at a first electronic device, the process is suspended until a communication path is established over the Bluetooth communication network between the first electronic device and a remote electronic device within a Bluetooth network. The remote electronic device may be selected by a user from a list of available devices. In another embodiment, a user may pre-configure the VCOM port for a specific functional profile and pre-configure a remote electronic device to the VCOM port.

Abstract: An extensible, object-oriented framework describes various generic elements of legacy automation systems. That framework is used as a basis for porting one or more of those elements to another (“target”) automation system. Objects in the framework, known as “extensions,” adapt information from the legacy system to a corresponding, generic representation. Compilers express those representations in the target system. The framework thus translates the “old” automation configuration for use in a “new” automation system. The scheme can be extended to accommodate arbitrary control systems (i.e., other manufacturers and product lines), new sub-domains within the automation domain (e.g. operator interfaces, batch control etc.) and new target systems without altering the core framework.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for interfacing legacy applications with a wireless communication network. Specifically, the present invention discloses an integrated hardware device that creates and manages a virtual serial communication port. The virtual port is presented to legacy applications and an operating system in a computer system as a serial communication port having a UART device. An interface application ensures legacy application compatibility with the wireless communication standard, including a Bluetooth communication standard. The interface application converts outgoing data from the legacy application into a format associated with the Bluetooth communication standard. The interface application converts incoming data from a format compatible with the wireless communication standard to a format compatible with a bus and the legacy application located on the computer system.

Abstract: A water powered vibrating device has a self-propelled eccentric mass that rotates about a shaft in a casing. A pad is supported on the casing, making contact with the casing along a plane substantially parallel to the axis of rotation. A vibration is generated when the self-propelled eccentric mass rotates on the shaft, which vibration is transmitted to the casing providing a strong kneading and rubbing action on the pad with substantially no component of force parallel to the axis of rotation.